By Derek Schlennstedt
Upper Ferntree Gully Primary School has become more inclusive for students with disabilities and additional needs.
Minister for Education and Member for Monbulk James Merlino visited the school last week to officially open the new oral language and sensory play space, which was made possible when he announced a $200,000 grant as part of the Inclusive School Fund in 2018.
Mr Merlino opened the play space, cutting the ribbon on 7 February.
“We’ve got a red ribbon and gold scissor,” he said, speaking to the primary school students at a school assembly.
“This was actually just before the election, this was my very last official visit when we announced a funding of $200,000 for this project, and coming back to it I just think it is stunning.”
“This is great news for Upper Ferntree Gully students, who will get the benefits of a new inclusive space that will cater for a wider range of options for teaching and learning.
“Making Victoria the Education State means ensuring students of all abilities can access a great education.”
Students will now be able to learn in an outdoor area connected to the classroom.
The new play space includes a pergola, decking, a sand and water area, new play equipment and accessible benches and ledges at different heights.
The fund ensures that students with disabilities are given the same opportunities as other students and was established I 2015.
Another project under the same fund is taking place at Kallista Primary school, where, in December 2019, Mr Merlino announced a $87,000 grant to build a new sensory retreat at the school.
